Archive for December, 2008

Generally choosing pearl jewelry is no longer confined to just selecting from different sizes and slight variations in color of the pearls and style of the jewelry. Pearls now come in a variety of colors ranging from the very dark black Tahitian pearls through to the silver, greenish, bluish and even purplish colors of these unique pearls to the traditional white, ivory and cream color. Pinkish tinged pearls are also a big fashion hit and are a real eye catching addition to any outfit. There are two different types of naturally occurring pearls, freshwater and saltwater. As can be imagined from the names, the only difference is the type of water in which the mollusk that produces the pearls is found. Within those two groups there are further divisions that include the terms natural and cultured. Natural pearls occur in nature by accident or chance, without any specific activities from humans. Cultured pearls are still created by mollusks in their shells, however the pearl is actually started because a human inserts a small piece of foreign material to get the process started. These cultured pearls are perfectly round and can be kept in the oyster until the desired diameter is reached. Pearls that touch the side of the shell become flattened and irregular in shape and are known as mabes or blister pearls.

Pearls are the traditional jewelry choice for brides and for a lot of really good reasons. First and foremost they match literally any skin tone and the new color varieties mean that you can add a touch of color or stay with the basics. A new version of the old classic for a bride or for bridesmaids is a pearl that is used as a pendant, forming a single drop necklace and earring set that is soft, warm and radiant close to the skin. These earring and necklace sets also double as ideal for business dress, casual dress and even for a night on the town. Pearls on bracelets mixed with carved or decorative gold beads and glass or gem beads are also a current fashion setting trend, again proving to be very versatile and practical while still beautiful and classic.